Eagle's Nest, New Zealand

If total isolation in the heart of the tropics has you reaching for your passport, fly your way to the farthest-most tip of the Russell peninsula and make sure to reserve Rahimoana Villa (pictured), the ruler of this sublime resort's roost. Panoramas here are heart-stoppingly good - sure to stir something in even the most seasoned jet-setter - so soak your loins in the villa's 25-metre infinity pool, the very best spot from which to behold your newfound place in the world: gloriously abandoned somewhere between emerald green tree-tops and a peacock blue sea.

Kasbah Du Toubkal, Morocco

Previously owned by an antiques dealer with a flair for secluded entertaining, the now-hotel (spy its fortress-like façade amid High Atlas Mountain peaks) is a scene of style and seduction: carved Indian doors give way to Indonesian statues, opulent suites and an ever-enduring scent of sultry spices. Boudoirs don't disappoint in the charm stakes, either, with elaborate mosaic ceilings, claw-footed furniture and African arches that lead to sunken baths. But such desertion isn't without its outdoor pursuits: explore wild gardens, hike the Ourika valley - or, of course, you could simply drink-in a blanket of green by the hillside infinity pool.

Castello di Vicarello, Italy

Mouthwatering Italian fare plucked from the grounds, tumbling Tuscan hills made for roaming, sultry olive groves and shut-the-door suites make this castle one for comfort seekers. And with over 900 years to its fertile foundations, it's had plenty of time to cultivate true Tuscan charm. A focus on food and romance pervades from every corner - it is Italian, after all - so feast upon daily-changing menus from owner Aurora and pick a dining spot, be it a candle-lit, flower-strewn courtyard or a secret garden corner. For the most privacy on the plot, reserve Suite Villa Chiesina - a two-tier outbuilding away from the main castello that's a slave to Louis XIV-style and swoon-inducing country views.

EOLO, Argentina

Patagonia's arid landscape harbours a diamond in the rough: a rustic lodge which took its style tips from a traditional sheep farm (zinc walls, gabled roofs) - with the most luxurious of twists. Reach La Anita Valley's shallowest point and bask in the homeliness that resonates from EOLO's every corner: walls hug antiques, carved wood features and touch-me fabrics of butter-soft leather and cord, while outside, 3,000 arid hectares form your garden for the duration. To truly be at one with its awesome surrounds hike or bike its breadth or, for those who prefer someone else to do the leg-work, master nearby Mount Frias on horse-back. But, it would be criminal to leave without a trip to Perito Moreno Glacier whose startlingly ice-blue hue and see-it-to-believe-it scale proves a spellbinding sight.

Saffire Freycinet, Australia

Banish yourself to Tasmania's shores and hide away at this coast-hugging, sting ray-shaped sanctuary. Despite its slick, shell-like form, clean lines and panoramic windows, each of its 20 cabin-style suites manages to be as cosy as it is cool - a contemporary blend of stone, timber and snuggle-in fabrics. (Reserve a Private Pavilion and one of the resort's acclaimed chefs will come to your suite and cook for you). tBut, perhaps the jewel in its Ozzie crown is its sprawling vistas of Great Oyster Bay where the five pink-tinged peaks of The Hazards can be seen in all their natural glory. Marry gazing with fresh seafood at the hotel's sublime restaurant, Palate, where new menus are issued each day.

The Point, USA

You can be sure no one's hot on your tail when heading for this rustic lodge: directions are only divulged to confirmed guests. Such exclusivity is echoed in the private estate's desolate setting - sat blissfully still on a pristine lake in New York's lesser-known north east, its 11 individually designed guest quarters are shrouded by thickets of soaring pine trees. In fact, veer off a rust-coloured dirt track (that's all we can tell you), and it's the kind of rugged retreat where you'd expect to find the likes of the late Steve McQueen, feet on deck and cigar balanced on contemplative lips. Rest your head in one of its deluxe log cabins and savour private decks or roaring log fires.

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